Research suggests around 70% of us don’t get enough magnesium. So, why is that a problem? Well, magnesium is a hugely important mineral that’s involved in hundreds of processes in the body. A lack of magnesium can have a significant impact on your overall physical and mental health.
I speak from experience. After 5 months of almost constant vestibular migraines (all the fun of a migraine with added vertigo – trust me, they’re a delight), I’d had more than enough. When the room wasn’t spinning, my desperate Google searches on ‘How to murder a migraine,’ sent me spiralling down the symptoms rabbit hole shouting “I’ve got that! And that!”, until I eventually stumbled upon low levels of magnesium as a possible cause of my maladies.
After trying to wrap my fuzzy little brain around all the research, I decided upping my magnesium intake was worth a try. It took about 3 weeks to start feeling the effects, but the difference was remarkable. My brain fog slowly lifted, the constant head and neck pain eased, and I no longer wanted to pass out at my desk by 2pm. I could even walk around the house without bumping into walls or falling over (always a bonus).
But, you don’t just have to take my word for it. There’s plenty of evidence that sorting out a magnesium imbalance can do wonders for your wellbeing.
Lise Matthews, one half of the Nutrition Detectives and Natural Health Practitioner at The Ark in Haverfordwest comments:
“Magnesium can bring magic to your everyday life. It is one of the most important nutrients in the body. Yet sadly, it is one of the single nutrients that is most deficient in people in the UK. It’s vital for cellular energy production, it has a relaxing effect on the nervous system. So, helps us get a better-quality sleep, improves mood and soothes your muscles.
Studies have proven those consuming higher levels of magnesium, whether via their diet or supplements, are less likely to have low levels of vitamin D. So, if you are taking Vitamin D now for immunity and protection against Covid 19, do also consider whether you’re getting enough magnesium.”
Add more magnesium to your diet
Most of us don’t have nearly enough magnesium in our diets but eating foods that are packed with magnesium is a good place to start bumping up your levels. Magnesium rich foods include:
- Salmon, mackerel and halibut
- Leafy greens like spinach, chard and kale
- Edamame beans
- Almonds and cashews
- Cooked beans and chickpeas
- Hemp, flax, sesame and chia seeds
- Wholegrains
- Avocados
- Bananas
- And last (but, definitely not least) dark chocolate
Although eating more of these foods can help boost magnesium, it may be hard to achieve sufficient levels through diet alone. So, supplements might be a good idea. However, not all magnesium supplements are created equal – many of the ones you’ll find on the shelves aren’t great when it comes to being easily absorbed by the body. It may be worth doing a bit of research into finding a more bioavailable option, or consult a professional like Lise at The Ark. Although magnesium is generally safe and well-tolerated, as with any supplement, it’s always best to speak to your doctor before taking it.
Personally, I can genuinely say that increasing my intake of magnesium has made a huge difference to my life. So, if you’re searching for something that might help you improve your own wellbeing, it might just be worth looking into here and here.
